What does a peak oxygen uptake level of less than 14-15 ml/kg/min indicate in patients?

A peak oxygen uptake level of less than 14-15 ml/kg/min indicates very low functional capacity in patients. This metric reflects the maximum amount of oxygen a person can utilize during intense exercise, which is a strong indicator of overall cardiovascular fitness and endurance. When levels fall below this threshold, it suggests that the individual's cardiorespiratory system is unable to meet the metabolic demands of physical activities, which can compromise their ability to perform daily tasks and reduce exercise tolerance.

Low peak oxygen uptake can also correlate with increased risk of morbidity and mortality, as it signals an insufficient cardiovascular system that may not adequately support physical exertion. Therefore, identifying patients with such low values is essential for determining appropriate interventions and rehabilitation strategies to improve their health and functional capacity.